With this blog I will focus on intentional thoughtful small tasks that you can do to improve your individual performance. “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle

Sunday, February 12, 2017

Be Kind to Yourself

New Zealand is home to more than half of the world's
whale species, with
42 species and two subspecies in its waters. Also nearly half of the
world's dolphins and porpoises live off the coastline.

In the first week of February of this year, 416 pilot whales had beached themselves overnight at Farewell
Spit in Golden Bay at the top of the South Island in New Zealand, with more
than 70% dying by the time dawn broke on Friday. Golden Bay is conducive to strandings because of its shallow bay, which made it difficult for whales to swim out once they have entered.

The reasons for whales strandings are still unclear, but it
is thought a combination of factors contribute, with old, sick and injured
whales being particularly vulnerable. Whales, dolphins and porpoises rely on sound for navigation, foraging,
and communication, so military sonar and other human-made sounds can cause
whales to beach. Getting trapped in fishing gear or colliding with ships can also
injure and disorient whales, extreme weather and getting trapped in low
tides can also force them inshore.

But unlike humans, whales have to think about each breath they take. When they are sick or injured they come to shore where they can rest without having to fight to stay at the water's surface. Social species, like pilot whales, work together. They often call out to one another in distress and more come to help, also getting themselves into trouble.

What can we takeaway from this tragedy that we can apply to our own life? Human beings are also social creatures. Most of us like to be around the company of our family, friends, and work colleagues for companionship and emotional support. We have cultivated a support system around us to encourage us, help us when necessary and to tell the truth to us even when we don't want to here it.

You cannot truly support others if you are barely keeping
yourself just above water. So remember to take time to care and rejuvenate yourself
and be kind to yourself.